How can I make sure the playground equipment is age-appropriate?
Of course, all children grow and mature at different rates, but here are some general guidelines to follow with specific playground equipment. Designated “tot lots” are best for children under 3 years old; the equipment there has been specially designed with the tiniest people in mind. Children under the age of 5 should be strapped into swings to avoid falls; older kids have the strength to hold themselves in the seat and keep from falling out. Jungle gyms, which invite climbing, are best for children 6 years of age and older. Younger kids are too small to safely navigate the equipment. Closely supervise children under 8 on the merry-go-round. Little kids more easily lose their balance when whirled around. And seesaws are best reserved for kids 8 and older, too. But if younger children want to try their hands (and feet) at the seesaw, be sure to oversee them on the equipment.
